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Itineraries

Birmingham Canal

With so much to do in Birmingham, we have created some example itineraries for you to give you an idea of what you can do while in Birmingham, whether you have just a few hours or a whole day.

2 hours

  • Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery – holds the world’s largest collection of pre-Raphaelite works of art.
  • Barber Institute – one of only five museums outside of London to be recognised for its ‘outstanding significance’.
  • Shopping – visit the Bullring Shopping Centre, with over 160 shops including Selfridges & Debenhams, you’re sure to find that perfect purchase.

4 hours

  • Cadbury World – visit the home of chocolate to discover the brand’s history, as well as how they make all that lovely chocolate!
  • Botanical Gardens – take yourself away from business and visit the beautiful gardens, a 15 acre oasis of peace and tranquillity.
  • National Sealife Centre – come face to face with a range of creatures from sharks and seahorses to otters and turtles.
  • Aston Hall – one of the finest historic homes in the West Midlands.
  • Thinktank – meet high-tech interactivity at Birmingham’s innovative science museum.

Free day


  • With a day to spare, travel out of the city in any direction and you’ll soon be treated to the rich culture and heritage that the heart of England has to offer.

  • Shakespeare’s Stratford – explore the life of Shakespeare in this picturesque town on the banks of the River Avon.

  • Warwick Castle – visit this historic building which dates back to 914AD, see the world’s largest siege machine, visit the Conservatory and Peacock garden, or roam through the grand Great Hall and Georgian State Rooms.

  • Golf at the Belfry – play a round of golf at the UK headquarters of the PGA, playing on England’s only PGA course, or on the Belfry’s second and shorter course for players of all levels.

  • Worcestershire – track down elephants, rhinos, tigers and many more at West Midlands Safari Park. Drive through the 4 mile self-drive safari trail and feed some of the animals yourself!

  • Weston Park – visit the beautiful stately home and park; stroll through the gardens and explore this stunning 17th century house that dates back to the Doomsday Book
  • The Public Art Gallery – visit this newly opened gallery with arts, activities, exhibitions and a packed events calendar.

  • Black Country – immerse yourself in traditional black country life, with a1800s pub, a school from 1912, a chemist, baker’s, and a fish and chip shop among the many exhibits
  • Alton Towers – visit the UK’s largest theme park, home to big rides, family fun and attractions for all.

Free evening

  • Entertainment – visit the Birmingham Hippodrome, home to the Birmingham Royal Ballet, or take in some live music at the fantastic Symphony Hall or the Jam House, opened in 1999 with support from musician Jools Holland.
  • Dine out – you will be spoilt for choice with the range of restaurants that Birmingham has to offer, from Indian, Chinese, Italian, English and many more.